Starting orthodontic treatment is a big step for kids—and their parents. Whether your child is excited, nervous, or unsure, it’s natural to have questions about what the process will look like. What will the first appointment be like? Will it hurt? How long will they have to wear braces?
Understanding what to expect can make the transition smoother and less intimidating. In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to help your child prepare for braces with confidence.
When Is the Right Time for Braces?
Most children start orthodontic treatment between the ages of 9 and 14. However, the exact timing depends on your child’s individual dental development, not just their age.
An orthodontist may recommend braces when your child has:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- An overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly
- Jaw misalignment or shifting
Early evaluation (around age 7) helps determine the best time to begin treatment, even if braces aren’t needed right away.
Types of Braces for Kids
There are several options available today, each with its own benefits. Your orthodontist will help you choose the best type based on your child’s needs.
Traditional Metal Braces
- Most common for kids
- Made of stainless steel brackets and wires
- Can be personalized with colorful rubber bands
- Highly effective for even complex cases
Ceramic Braces
- Similar in shape and function to metal braces
- Made with tooth-colored or clear materials
- Less noticeable, but more fragile
Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign)
- Removable trays made of clear plastic
- Best for mild to moderate alignment issues
- Must be worn 20–22 hours per day to be effective
Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s important to consider your child’s lifestyle, age, and how much responsibility they’re ready for.
The Braces Placement Appointment
Getting braces doesn’t hurt, but it’s a new experience—so it helps to know what will happen at the bonding appointment.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Teeth cleaning — The orthodontist will clean and dry your child’s teeth to prepare for bonding.
- Applying brackets — Brackets are attached to each tooth using a special dental adhesive.
- Placing the archwire — A thin wire is threaded through the brackets and secured with small rubber bands (called ligatures).
- Final check — The orthodontist checks that everything is positioned correctly and explains care instructions.
The entire process usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, and your child can return to school afterward.
What to Expect After Braces Are Placed
It’s normal for your child to feel some discomfort for a few days after getting braces. This is a sign that the teeth are starting to shift—exactly what they’re supposed to do.
Common experiences include:
- Soreness in the teeth and jaws
- Mild pressure or tightness
- Irritation on the inside of the cheeks or lips
- Increased saliva for a day or two
Tips for easing discomfort:
- Offer soft foods like yogurt, pasta, smoothies, and mashed potatoes
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp brackets
- Provide over-the-counter pain relief (like children’s ibuprofen) if needed
- Encourage drinking cold water to soothe inflammation
Discomfort usually fades within a few days, and many kids adjust quickly to their new braces.
Caring for Braces at Home
Good oral hygiene becomes even more important once braces are on. Food and plaque can easily get trapped around brackets and wires, increasing the risk of cavities and gum problems.
Here’s how your child can take care of their smile:
Brushing:
- Brush after every meal (or at least twice a day)
- Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
- Angle the brush to reach above and below the brackets
- Brush for at least 2 minutes using fluoride toothpaste
Flossing:
- Use floss threaders, floss picks, or a water flosser
- Floss once a day to clean between teeth and under wires
Diet:
- Avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods (like gum, popcorn, caramel, or ice)
- Cut up raw fruits and veggies into bite-sized pieces
- Choose softer foods during the first week of treatment
Orthodontic Appointments and Adjustments
Your child will need to visit the orthodontist every 4–8 weeks for adjustments. During these appointments, the orthodontist may:
- Tighten or change the archwire
- Replace elastic bands
- Check progress and make minor corrections
Your child may experience mild soreness for a day or two after adjustments—similar to when braces were first placed.
How Long Will My Child Wear Braces?
Every child’s treatment is different, but most wear braces for 18 to 24 months. Factors that affect treatment time include:
- The complexity of the case
- How well your child follows care instructions
- How consistently they wear rubber bands or aligners (if prescribed)
- Growth and development of the jaw and face
Following your orthodontist’s instructions closely will help ensure treatment stays on schedule.
What Happens When Braces Come Off?
The big day—getting braces off—is exciting! Once the orthodontist removes the brackets and wires, your child’s teeth are polished to remove any remaining adhesive.
Aftercare includes:
- Taking impressions for a retainer
- Instructions for wearing the retainer to maintain results
- A follow-up appointment to monitor stability
Wearing a retainer is crucial to keeping that new smile in place.
Final Thoughts: Patience Pays Off
Braces are a journey—but one with a rewarding outcome. Helping your child understand what to expect (and what’s expected of them) will set them up for success. Encourage good habits, attend all appointments, and celebrate milestones along the way.
Looking for Expert Orthodontic Care?
A smooth orthodontic experience starts with the right team. At Kids Care Dental and Orthodontics in Plantation, FL, we provide personalized, kid-focused care every step of the way—from the first consultation to the final smile reveal.
Schedule your child’s orthodontic consultation today and help them take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile.